Mogadishu (Salmurux News) — Somalia has cancelled all agreements with the United Arab Emirates, terminating deals covering port operations, security cooperation, and defence, after accusing Abu Dhabi of actions that undermine Somalia’s sovereignty, unity, and political independence.

The decision was announced on Monday by the Council of Ministers following an emergency session addressed by President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud. In a statement on X, Defence Minister Ahmed Moallim Fiqi said the move was based on “reliable reports and evidence” indicating Emirati practices harmful to Somalia’s national interests.

Allegations and Regional Tensions

Analysts link Mogadishu’s decision to Israel’s December recognition of Somaliland, a self-declared state that broke away from Somalia in 1991 but lacks international recognition. Some Somali commentators allege that the United Arab Emirates played a facilitating role—an accusation Abu Dhabi denies.

While the UAE declined to endorse a joint Arab–Islamic statement condemning Israel’s move, it later issued a joint declaration with the African Union affirming support for Somalia’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, security, and stability.

UAE Influence in Breakaway Regions

Somaliland has become a focal point of Emirati commercial and security investment, notably the 30-year concession at Berbera Port operated by DP World. Sources close to the Somali government say there is growing frustration in Mogadishu over what it views as the UAE consolidating influence in Somalia’s breakaway and autonomous regions.

The Africa Center for Strategic Studies estimates UAE investments across East Africa at roughly $47 billion—about 60 percent of total Gulf capital inflows into the region.

Additional Triggers

The rupture also follows reports that Aidarous al-Zubaidi, head of Yemen’s Southern Transitional Council, transited through Berbera on January 8 en route to the UAE after declining Saudi-led talks in Riyadh. Somalia’s immigration authority subsequently announced an investigation into what it described as the unauthorized use of national airspace and airports.

Federal Dynamics and Reactions

Given Somalia’s federal system, it remains unclear whether all member states will comply with the decision. Puntland and Jubaland, both of which maintain close ties with the UAE, are currently at odds with the federal government over proposed constitutional changes and election procedures.

In Somaliland, officials dismissed Mogadishu’s authority. The Minister of the Presidency said the decision would have no impact, describing the UAE as a trusted partner that invested in Berbera when others hesitated.

Salmurux News — Independent reporting with national perspective.